EXPLORE MISSOURI

ST LOUIS • KANSAS CITY • ST LOUIS • COLUMBIA

Bus Ticket to Missouri

Home to multiple lakes and rivers, Missouri is known for its bountiful nature and beautiful scenery. The “Show-Me State,” as it is widely known is incredibly diverse. It’s a baseball lover’s dream—teams from the state have appeared in the World Series multiple times over the years—and anyone with an appreciation for architecture can speak to the virtues of the dramatic Great Arch. Caves are a big deal here, too, and there are plenty of fun and entertaining things to do every day of the week, in cities both big and small. Is there any reason not to book a bus ticket to Missouri?

A Brief History of Missouri

The earliest known mentions of Missouri occur in the late 17th century, when Father Jacques Marquette, a French missionary, and Louis Joliet, a fur trader, explored the region as they sailed the river. In 1682, the state was claimed, along with several others, as part of the Louisiana Purchase for France, whose settlers used Missouri grounds to trade with Native Americans. The state was granted to Spain in 1762, and the country controlled the state until 1800. In 1803, however, Napoleon Bonaparte sold the territory to the United States, and it was admitted to the Union in 1821.

Culture in Missouri

Native Missourians can vouch for one of the state’s most noteworthy contributions to society: It’s home to the Anheuser Busch distillery, aka Budweiser. Missouri wine country, meanwhile, lends some areas a distinctly Napa Valley-like quality. Supported by a great beverage scene, it’s no wonder that the state is home to so many enthusiastic foodies. Just as important as a delicious barbecue, people in Missouri love their sports. Here, you’re either a St. Louis Cardinals fan or a Kansas City Royals devotee. In truth, baseball is truly a big thing here, and friendly residents won’t hesitate to extol the virtues of their favorite team. There’s also an intriguing conflux of Midwest-meets-South. There are those in the deepest southern portions of the state who love their sweet tea and bake a mean pie. Then there are the northerners who can handle an obliterating snowstorm like no one else. But one thing is true of the state at large: People are friendly, welcoming, and more than ready to help complete strangers with anything they need. There’s a certain small-town vibe about it, yet the vibrant, modern undertones speak to Missouri’s continuous growth and popularity.

Where to Go

St Louis

First stop, St. Louis! You almost can’t avoid a trip to this iconic city, where you’ll find the beautiful Gateway Arch, a towering monument that provides incredible views from 630 feet above the city. If you’re there with the family, make your way to Six Flags St. Louis for hours of classic theme park fun. There’s also plenty for all to experience at the St. Louis Zoo. If you’re all about culture, spare a few hours—or a whole day—to make your way through the Missouri History Museum, the St. Louis Art Museum, the Museum of Transportation, the City Museum, and the impressive Laumier Sculpture Park.

Kansas City

There’s just as much to do in lively Kansas City. The National World War I Museum and Memorial is among the most noteworthy for history buffs. But for those who want to soak up some local culture, enjoy your downtime exploring the Airline History Museum, the American Jazz Museum, and the Kemper Museum of Contemporary Art. If you prefer a bit of solitude, take a stroll in the Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden in the city center. Balance that out with a visit to bustling City Market, one of the busiest and most beloved farmer’s markets in the Midwest.

Columbia

Home to the University of Missouri, or Mizzou, this charming college town packs plenty of activity into its tourist-friendly downtown streets. There’s the lively District, where you can shop and dine until your heart’s content in the company of local students. For a more relaxed outing, head to the 2,200-acre Rock Bridge Memorial State Park and navigate the intricate cave system. Among the most popular are Connor’s Cave Tours, where guides help you navigate into the darkness and teach you about the subterranean ecosystem. Or head to the Eagle Bluffs Conservation Area, which is composed of wetlands, forest, and farmland and provides incredible wildlife- and bird-watching opportunities.

Springfield

Cozy Springfield offers all the charm of a quaint small town, with all the opportunities of a vibrant city. It’s known as the birthplace of Route 66, a true symbol of American heritage and one of the country’s most famous. It’s also known as the “Queen City of the Ozarks,” a moniker that celebrated the growth and popularity of the city as it developed in the late 19th century. If you’re more curious about the state’s caves, make a pitstop at Fantastic Caverns, where you can take a nearly hour-long ride through the depths of the system.

Branson Hollister

If you book a bus ticket to Missouri and stop at Branson Hollister, you can enjoy a full itinerary of activities without spending a fortune. Among the area’s most popular attractions is Table Rock Lake, a great spot for a picnic, swimming, or fishing. Or stop inside the Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, where marine life enthusiasts can enjoy aquariums full of beautiful native fish.

Joplin

Nature enthusiasts can get their fix in Joplin, which is home to Grand Falls. It’s one of the most scenic attractions in the state. Or enjoy a hike on the trails surrounding the Wildcat Glades Conservation & Audobon Center. The National Cookie Cutter Historical Museum is a quirky highlight where you can browse exhibits devoted solely to—you guessed it—the classic kitchen tools that transform cookies into shapely treasures.

Rolla

A small town with a population of under 20,000, Rolla is situated close to Mark Twain National Forest. It’s an ideal place for outdoor enthusiasts as there are miles of walking trails to explore, plenty of park space, and even a water park.

St. Joseph

For a history buff, there are few places in the state that compare to the wonders of St. Joseph. It’s known largely as the place where Jesse James died and is also home to the Pony Express Stables. The Patee House, built-in 1858, is one of the state’s most worthwhile places to visit; it served as a hotel before the Civil War and the Pony Express headquarters. Today, it’s a museum and a National Historic Landmark.